Best Tent Camping near Purcellville, VA

Tent camping near Purcellville, Virginia includes several established campgrounds and primitive sites within an hour's drive. Sky Meadows State Park Campground offers a popular backcountry tent camping experience about 15 miles southwest of town, while Antietam Creek Campground in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park provides riverside tent sites to the north.

Most tent campsites in the region require some effort to access, with many designated as hike-in or walk-in only. Sky Meadows features a one-mile hike to reach its wooded tent sites, each equipped with a bear box, fire ring, picnic table, and tent pad with pea gravel. Antietam Creek requires campers to park on the street and walk across a bridge to reach riverside sites. Vault toilets or pit toilets are common, though many locations lack running water. A camper noted, "There is nowhere to leave trash, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack everything out with you."

The tent camping experience in this region offers varying levels of seclusion and natural settings. Sky Meadows provides wooded sites dispersed throughout hills, creating private tent camping areas despite the campground being full. Sites at Antietam Creek sit along the Potomac River with limited privacy between neighbors and the C&O towpath. A recent review mentioned, "The sites are fully or mostly shaded. Be prepared to make friends with bugs, but they shouldn't bother you." For more remote primitive tent setups, Little Crease Shelter offers a secluded backcountry experience about a mile and a half from Veach Gap Trailhead. Many locations throughout the region provide access to extensive trail networks, including sections of the Appalachian Trail, making them ideal bases for day hiking or backpacking adventures.

Best Tent Sites Near Purcellville, Virginia (45)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Purcellville, VA

1058 Reviews of 45 Purcellville Campgrounds



Guide to Purcellville

Tent camping near Purcellville, Virginia offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of amenities and activities. With several well-reviewed campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and unwind.

Tips for tent camping near Purcellville

  • Antietam Creek Campground provides a unique experience with walk-in sites along the river, perfect for those who enjoy a scenic backdrop while camping.
  • Sky Meadows State Park Campground is accessible year-round and features picnic tables and fire pits, making it ideal for social gatherings around the campfire.
  • Dahlgren Backpacker Campground offers showers and drinking water, ensuring a comfortable stay for those hiking along the Appalachian Trail.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • At Sky Meadows State Park Campground, you can explore numerous hiking trails that wind through beautiful landscapes, perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
  • Antietam Creek Campground is located near historical sites, allowing campers to enjoy both nature and a bit of local history during their stay.
  • Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite offers a peaceful setting for fishing and birdwatching along the river, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

Features that enhance your camping experience

  • Dahlgren Backpacker Campground includes clean bathroom facilities and a year-round water source, providing essential comforts for backpackers.
  • Gathland State Park Campground features a small creek for fresh water and is surrounded by wildlife, offering a serene environment for campers seeking tranquility.
  • Mountain Lake Campground is known for its beautiful views and spacious tent sites, making it a great choice for families and groups looking to enjoy the outdoors together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Purcellville, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Purcellville, VA is Sky Meadows State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 10 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Purcellville, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 45 tent camping locations near Purcellville, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.